Aviation security refers to measures taken to keep aircraft and their passengers and crew safe. Aviation security has existed throughout most of the history of aviation. But various events throughout history have led to heightened security for those traveling on board aircraft. During the 1970s, modern airport security was first introduced. Following the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States, security was heightened worldwide. A ban on carrying liquids was introduced in 2006. Over the years, experts have tried best to determine the best ways to conduct security of air travel, and what items to permit and ban.

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Airport design

Each commercial airport contains a sterile area where passengers must be screened prior to entry. The screening process includes examination of the passengers and their carry-on luggage. Luggage is generally x-rayed as it passes along a conveyor belt. Passengers have traditionally passed through a metal detector, though in recent years, airports in some places x-ray passengers with a millimeter wave scanner. Those who cannot be accurately examined with these devices may be subject to a patdown.

Forbidden items

In all countries, it is forbidden to carry various items onto the cabin of an aircraft that are believed to have the potential to do harm to passengers and crew. The restrictions vary by country, but some items are universally banned. In addition, some items are also banned in checked luggage.

How to successfully pass security

Obey the law: That's what they are making sure you are doing, so if you do, you are complying with their guidelines

Be honest: It is hard for most to lie straight-faced, and agents are looking out for the signs of lying

Have nothing to hide: You may draw unwanted suspicion to yourself if you are trying to keep a secret, even if legal

Cooperate: If you fail to cooperate without a fight, you will draw further unwanted scrutiny

Have the required documents ready: This shows that you are willing to allow the agents to see them

Carry the full list of forbidden items: Print out a copy with the printer showing a date as close as possible to your day of travel. This way, if you are questioned about an item you are carrying, and falsely told it is not permitted, you can show it is permitted. You can either have a printout or have a window for the page of the site of that country already open on your smartphone.